architect & textile artist
JAPAN CREATIVE 2018
December 1st - December 9th, 2018
9 days / 8 nights
UPDATE 2 spaces available
Join us in Japan for this artfully blended experience like none other!
With eight nights and nine creatively infused days of Architecture, Art, Culture, and Restorative Yoga. You will also be hands-on with workshops in
Tapestry Weaving, Basket Weaving, Japanese Sashiko, Indigo dying, Yoga and
Meditation to awaken your creative self. Set in Japan’s breathtaking art islands of the Seto inland sea, Naoshima
and Teshima, this retreat has been woven together with a heart to inspire you to
access your core creativity, as if opening your heart to a beam of creative
the energy emanating from within.
The experience will begin with three nights in Kyoto bathing in the
romance as we wander Kyoto's atmospheric streets. Cocooned in a valley with
green mountains rising protectively around it, we will experience all of
Kyoto’s delights with our very own personal local guide, Rika. She will take us
to the temples and a garden in Arashiyama area, famous for its scenic beauty
since ancient time. We will then move to a Zen temple which on this day, the
temple has a special event to serve Shojin cuisine (Zen style vegetarian meal)
with a guided tour by the monk Daiko Matsuyama. Then, we will move to the east
part of Kyoto to visit Kawai Kanjiro Museum. Kanjiro was one of the most
popular potters in Kyoto in an early 20th century. The place where he used to
create and live, now is open to the public as a museum. Here, we can see his love
and passion for creation, as well as his playfulness and humanity.
On the following day, Rika will also take us to a Machiya townhouse (traditional townhouse), where we will have demonstrations on the Sensu
(Folding Fan). We also will enjoy the Furoshiki demonstration in a big tatami
room.
Our workshops in Kyoto include Japanese embroidery, Sashiko with Meri
from Walnut Kyoto and Tapestry weaving with Natalie Miller.
For the next five nights the energy of the Islands of the Seto inland sea, Naoshima and Teshima will infuse you with inspiration, immersing you in the experience of nature, artistic exploration and awakening a sense of vitality and infinity, which becomes the path to your
core creativity. We will be guided by Casey Cordoba with restorative yoga and meditation.
We will make Japanese bamboo inspired baskets with Harriet Goodall, we will
also dip them in an indigo Vat and learn all about indigo and natural dyes. We
also will dabble in rug hooking with a punch needle, which is a tad obsessive. There
will be sunrise walks, sunset bike riding, and not to mention we will be
visiting the most incredible galleries and art projects on the islands.
Textiles, art, architecture and craft are at the heart of this retreat and the best have come together to guide you.
Escorted by Natalie Miller, Harriet Goodall, and Casey Cordoba.
What's included
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8 nights accommodation.
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(3 nights Kyoto, 3 nights Naoshima, 2 nights Teshima)
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8 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 5 dinners
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All workshops, sashiko, tapestry weaving, basket weaving, rug hooking with a punch needle, indigo and natural dyeing.
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All workshop materials.
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All restorative yoga and meditation
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One and a half days of guided tour in Kyoto which included most transportation, special guides and demonstrations.
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All museum entries on Naoshima and Teshima as specified. Chichu Museum, Arthouse project, Benesse House, Teshima Art Museum, and Teshima Yokoo House
What's not included
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Airfares
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Travel insurance (compulsory)
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Travel budget by Shinkansen (bullet train) and Ferries to the Seto Inland Seas, local trains and buses around the islands and Kyoto (budget $250aud)
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Some lunches and dinners
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Shower coins at Naoshima
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Bike hire (at your own risk)
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All drinks
PRICING
$3995 AUD
Single room in Kyoto
Twin share in Yurt at Naoshima (share bathroom)
Share in Teshima (share bathroom)
$4095 AUD
Single room in Kyoto
Single in Yurt at Naoshima (share bathroom)
Share in Teshima (share bathroom)
$4150
AUD
Single room in Kyoto
Twin Japanese cottage (sleep on futon) (ensuite)
Share in Teshima (share bathroom)
$700AUD deposit is required to secure space, balance due mid-October by bank transfer
The deposit can be paid via Bigcartel site or bank transfer (please email for bank details)
Due to organisation logistics the deposit is non-refundable if you cannot make it for any reason however it is certainly transferable to a friend. Thank you for understanding.
Please email Natalie for accommodation details and full brochure.
Please note the creative tours book out extremely quickly so if you are seriously interested please touch base with Natalie sooner than later.
Please email Natalie Miller at bleu2@bigpond.com with your room type request.
If you have any questions, please email Natalie Miller at bleu2@bigpond.com
MEET YOUR TEACHERS
Architect & Textile Artist
Artist & Weaver
Yoga teacher
Itinerary for Japan Creative 2018
Day 1 Kyoto - Hotel Anteroom (or similar)
Meet at our hotel, the Anteroom in Kyoto at 2 pm for a meet and greet. The very cool hotel filled with art and fabulous design.
After becoming comfortable with the group we will head off to walnut Kyoto to
take a Sashiko workshop (Japanese Embroidery) and indulge ourselves at this
beautiful yarn shop. Later in the evening, we will share our first dinner
together.
Notes: Each person will have their own room in a single room and own bathroom at Hotel Anteroom. Dinner at your cost. Train at your cost.
Day 2 Kyoto- Hotel Anteroom
Full day guided tour with local guide Rika
We will enjoy visiting temples and a garden in
Arashiyama area, famous for its scenic beauty since ancient time. Then, we will
move to the Zen temple “Taizo-in”
On this day, the temple has a special event to serve Shojin cuisine (Zen style
vegetarian meal) with a guided tour by the monk Daiko Matsuyama
Then, we will move to the east part of Kyoto to visit Kawai Kanjiro Museum. Kanjiro
was one of the most popular potter in Kyoto in early 20th century. The place where he used to create and live, now is open to public as a museum.
Here, we can see his love and passion for creation, as well as his playfulness and
humanity.
Tonight is at your leisure, perhaps shopping in Kyoto or experience the night lights at the old Quarter in Gion. Try some Soba noodles , sashimi or ramen.
Notes: Breakfast included, transportation, lunch and special guides for day tour included. Dinner not included.
Day 3 Kyoto- Hotel Anteroom
Half day guided tour in Kyoto with local guide Rika
Machiya townhouse (traditional townhouse), the Sensu (Folding Fan) shop, and the guests will see the proprietress there.
She will show the inside of her Machiya around, and the beautiful fans, telling their stories and history. Then, they will enjoy them
Furoshiki demonstration in a big tatami room. Furoshiki’s will be available for
you to purchase. We will gather together for lunch each experiencing a Japanese bento box.
Today you will also be learned or increase your skills at tapestry weaving with Natalie Miller at Walnut
Kyoto. In this 4 hour lesson, you will learn how to warp a loom and weave with
different techniques all with Natalie ’s hand-dyed
wool. You also get to take home your loom and an entire roll of
warp, plus wool. Not to worry if you don't complete your weave as we have
plenty of time to continue weaving at night.
Notes: Breakfast included, demonstrations on furoshiki and folding fans included, bento box lunch included, tapestry weaving class and materials included. Dinner not included.
Day 4 Naoshima- Tsutsujiso
This morning we have an early start to visit the Fushimi Inari temple. We walk the streets of Kyoto,
over the Kamo river to reach the temple.
The hike to the summit of 233m Mt. Inari-san and the pilgrimage circle around the shrines
near the top is one of the most interesting short walks around Kyoto. Approx. 4
hours.
After our amazing temple adventure, we then will be making our way to the Seto Inland sea. Approximately 5 hours south of Kyoto via Shinkansen, bus, and ferry.
Notes: Breakfast included and Dinner included. Lunch
not included. Transportation to Naoshima not included.
Day 5 Naoshima - Tsutsujiso
This morning we awake from our pao yurts to the sound of waves. Our resort is directly on the beach
and close proximity to Benesse House and directly in eyesight to Yayoi
Kusama’s yellow pumpkin. We begin our morning with meditation, and then we explore our way through the incredible outdoor
sculptures of Naoshima to visit the ChiChu Art museum. Designed by one of Japan's most profound architects, Tadao Ando, and
his beautiful museum houses the incredible works of artists James Turrell and
Monet.
We then will practice Restorative yoga with Casey to restore our creative minds ready for an
afternoon making with Harriet. Harriet will teach us Japanese Bamboo Inspired
baskets which we can later dye in an Indigo VAT if you choose
Tonight, we can enjoy Japanese cuisine together followed by an evening of rug hooking with a punch
needle.
Notes: Breakfast included, Lunch included (Bento box, western or Japanese) and Dinner included.
Day 6 Naoshima - Tsutsujiso
This early morning perhaps an early sunrise walk up the nearest mountain through incredible scenery to a small deserted beach with views over the Seto inland sea.
We then explore the Art House project which is a series of buildings scattered throughout the Honmura
area on Naoshima. Such a treat.
You can then choose to hire a bike or catch the local bus back to Tsutsujiso where we will continue
our restoration yoga and, in the afternoon, explore Bennesse House.
Tonight, we can enjoy Japanese cuisine together again followed by an evening of our obsession with the rug hooking with a punch needle.
Notes: Breakfast included, Lunch included (Bento box, western or Japanese) and Dinner included.
Day 7 Teshima - Mamma
This morning we will practice meditation and get ready to depart to our next destination, Teshima.
First of all, we will experience some more outdoor sculptures and try some Ramen
for lunch.
Our ferry journey takes us back to Uno Port where we will view the fish sculptures and then head off on
another ferry to Teshima island.
Notes: Breakfast included, Lunch excluded (Ramen) and Dinner included.
Day 8 Teshima - Mamma
Today we will ride our bikes or catch the town bus to view the spectacular Teshima Art Museum, which is truly captivating.Lunchtime we visit a fancy hotel on the sea and enjoy the Japanese cruise. Set menu including dessert. In the afternoon we will visit the colorful Teshima Yokoo House.
We will dine in at Mamma, the delicious home cooked meals will certainly be a surprise for you.
Notes: Breakfast included, Lunch included (set menu) and Dinner included.
Day 9 Head back to Osaka or Kyoto
This morning we head back to Osaka or Kyoto on our 4-5 hour journey via ferry, bus, and shinkansen.
Notes: Breakfast included, Lunch excluded Transportation to Osaka or Kyoto not included.
Frequently asked questions:
Food
Unfortunately, we are unable to handle specific dietary requirements, allergies, and intolerance's on our Japan trip. Japan is not always an easy place to travel for vegans and vegetarians. Whilst in the cities it is easier, remote places like the islands are not. The food in Japan is very delicious and healthy however it is usually prepared in a dashi stock which contains traces of dried fish and soy. Gluten, fish, and soy are the main ingredients in the Japanese diet. Whilst if you do have a food intolerance and are interested in coming on the trip I'm sure we could try to work something
out.
How should I pack
Super light is the key. On the islands they only cater for very small luggage.
If you plan on staying in Japan or accumulate shopping in Kyoto you can send your luggage to your next destination or the airport. If this is your plan, bring an additional bag. They do have lockers in most towns and ports however they only cater for up to 3 days.
Winter
It will be the beginning of winter for our trip. Natalie has travelled extensively to Japan in all seasons. Early Winter is her Favourite. Fewer crowds (very important). The Fall (autumn) leaves are still around and the colors of the landscape are magnificent.
Temps will get as low as 5 degrees C at night on the islands, however, the accommodations are super cozy and very well equipped. Temps can get up to 16 degrees C during the day. So pack for layering and preferably only one large jacket. You can always buy one at Uniqlo in Kyoto.
Washing machines
There are washing facilities available for a small cost at each venue
Hairdryers
There are hairdryers at each venue.
Bathhouse at Teshima
Typically in Japan, you enter the bathhouse without swimwear, however as we have the entire guest house, management has agreed swimwear is possible. There also is a private bathroom and many private
toilets. They provide a small towel however a larger one can be hired at a
small cost.
Currency
The currency is yen. Most shops take Credit Card, however some restaurants, all buses, and ferries don't. Cash and coins are
required.
Fitness
Whilst it is not a marathon, an average level of fitness is required for the sunrise walks, temple walks and bike rides.
Wifi
Most places have wifi. Kyoto township also has free wifi. You can also pre-purchase a travel card via your phone provider or hire a modem or buy a sim card at the airport which will provide data.
Footwear
In Japan, you usually take your shoes off in most places, including all museums and galleries. It is advisable to bring sandals (and socks) for ease of slipping on and off quickly. Comfortable runners or similar are advisable for the walks and bike rides.
Accommodation and Sharing
In Kyoto you will have your own room and ensuite unless a twin is requested.
In Naoshima you have the choice of having a yurt on your own or sharing with another. There are shared bathrooms (walk outside your yurt) typical of glamping.
They are very comfortable on the beach with a flued gas heater.
At Teshima there is only one place to stay om the island and it is share rooms only. You will share with two or three others on futons on tatami mats.
There are only share bathrooms indoors at Teshima. There is a great big bathhouse plus an additional private bathroom.
